HOW WE REDUCED EMISSIONS IMPACTS
‘This has been an extremely successful initiative...’
DR STEPHEN COTTRELL President 2008-09 Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch

We tackled mercury pollution
The Dentists for Cleaner Water program was launched in August 2008 to help reduce the amount of mercury that finds its way into the sewerage system.

What we did
Victorian dentists helped us to reduce the amount of mercury that finds its way into the sewerage system. More than 800 dental practices installed or committed to install amalgam separators following the launch of our Dentists for Cleaner Water program in August 2008.
Traditional “silver” fillings used by dentists contain a high percentage of mercury and dental practices are an acknowledged source of mercury pollution. Industrial, commercial and domestic premises also contribute to the problem.

Mercury pollution is a significant issue for Victoria’s water industry as it affects its ability to manage, treat, reuse or dispose of effluent and bio-solids.

Under the voluntary program, dental practices that install amalgam separators to capture the mercury receive a rebate.
We worked on the project in partnership with the Victorian branch of the Australian Dental Association, the Victorian water industry and the Australian Industry Group.

What you said
“This has been an extremely successful initiative, with the profession clearly embracing environmental responsibility.”
Dr Stephen Cottrell
President 2008-09
Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch

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